The first successful ascent of the mountain, from the South Face in Nepal, was made by a British expeditionary team in 1953.

The desire to scale Qomolangma never dies. However, human activities have had a negative effect in the area in recent decades.

Authorities in the Tibet autonomous region have been striving to tackle the problem of waste left at high altitudes.

They announced recently that to reduce the environmental impact on Qomolangma, climbers will be allowed to enter the region only in the spring, and their number will be limited to about 300 every year, including mountaineers, guides and support teams.

To protect the environment, since December travelers have been banned from all areas above the Rongpo Monastery, which lies at an altitude of 5,150 meters. But those with climbing permits are allowed to enter base camp in Tibet at 5,200 meters.

Last year, the Tibet Mountaineering Association welcomed 762 overseas visitors to climb the mountain, including 372 guides and logistics teams.

Authorities have planned to use funds collected from an annual service fee to carry out regular environmental protection work on Qomolangma.

The regional sports bureau has drafted a regulation aimed at improving garbage management on the mountain, and hopes it will take effect soon.

Sonam, secretary of the Tibet Mountaineering Association, who only has one name, said, "Our focus is for the mountain to be climbed in a scientific and green way, ensuring safety."